Make your day at the US Open more fun by following these simple tips.
1. Take the Subway - Take the LIRR - But Whatever You Do, Don't Take Your Car
Photo (c) John Roleke
The #7 subway is cheap ($2) and stops a short walk from the US Open. So does the more expensive LIRR (Long Island Railroad). The advantages of the LIRR over the subway are the set schedule, comfier seats, and faster trip from Manhattan's Penn Station.
2. Love the Ground Pass Tickets for the Best Value at the US Open
Want to be close to the action? You aren't you going to get that in Arthur Ashe Stadium unless you have a corporate connection or big bucks. You're better off skipping the expensive upper tier at Arthur Ashe (and its infamous poor views) and getting a grounds admission pass during the first week of the US Open.Grounds admission lets you see matches at Louis Armstrong Stadium, the Grandstand ,and all of the up-close-and-personal field courts. Who plays there? Some of the best. On the first day of the 2007 US Open with a grounds pass you could have seen: Nikolay Davydenko (4), Marion Bartoli (10), Marcos Baghdatis (18), Tomas Berdych (9), and Tommy Haas (10).
The grounds pass is best the first five days of the Open.
3. Don't Bring a Bag
Photo (c) John Roleke
4. Enter by the South Gate
Photo (c) John Roleke
5. Wear Sunglasses
Dang that sun is bright, and there isn't a lick of shade at Flushing Meadows. Want to follow the match? Visitors are highly advised to bring their own pair of sunglasses, lest you feel forced to fork over your Christmas bonus in advance for a fancy pair at one of the many US Open shopping kiosks. (A hat and sunblock will also make you happier.)6. Save Money by Eating Outside the US Open
Photo (c) John Roleke
Or walk farther in the park toward the soccer fields, and you'll find a couple Ecuadorian and Peruvian snack carts for even less money.
Or eat on your way to the Open or on your way home by subway to train.
Families (and anyone frugal) can pack sandwiches and bring them inside, but you'll have to wait in the longer line for bag check.
7. Don't Be a Rube
Photo (c) John Roleke
The US Open is a crowded, busy place, especially the first week. Everyone wants to the superstars, but all the players at the Open are exceptional athletes, deserving of our attention.
8. The West Side Is the Best Side
On a sunny day, the Open can feel overrun with people. Head to the West Side, away from Louis Armstrong Stadium, and you'll find less crowds and more chances to see great tennis at the field courts.9. Dress for the Weather
Wear a hat, sun screen, sun glasses, and loose clothes. If the weather report says anything about possible thunderstorms, pack an umbrella for these short monsoons (or to keep the sun off). And keep hydrated in the heat.The New York summer is hot and humid.
- August Averages - High 83°F (28°C) - Low 69°F (21°C)
- September Averages - High 76°F (24°C) - Low 61°F (16°C)
You may catch shade at Arthur Ashe Stadium (except on the north side), but don't count on it to last. The field courts are all about hats. At night it'll cool, but not as much as you would like. Thunderstorms are a real possibility.
10. See All of New York City at a Glance
Photo (c) Courtesy Queens Museum of Art
